COVID-19

Twelfth Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Charles Roberts has temporarily suspended jury trials throughout the circuit effective August 30, 2021.

In the new Administrative Order (2021-16.2), Chief Judge Roberts cites the alarming upward trends in positive COVID-19 cases within the circuit, prompting the need to limit the number of people in each courthouse to protect the community from possible exposure to the virus.

“The health, safety, and well-being of courthouse visitors, jurors, court employees, and judicial officers are a high priority, and we must continue to take steps to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on the courts, its participants, and the general public, while fulfilling the court system’s responsibilities for the administration of justice,” according to the order.

Chief Judge Roberts is halting jury trials based on the new case positivity rates reflected on the Florida Department of Health’s website and the CDC’s determination that the level of community transmission in all three counties is high.

For the most recent reporting period preceding this order, August 13-19, 2021, the Florida Department of Health showed positivity rates in the circuit as follows: 24.2% in DeSoto County; 19.4% in Manatee County; and 18.6% in Sarasota County.

“When COVID-19 restrictions were reduced in June following promising health data showing significantly lower infection rates, a large number of people, including prospective jurors (often numbering in the hundreds) returned to the courthouses. However, due to the marked escalation in COVID-19 cases in all three counties within the circuit, it has become necessary once again to temporarily suspend jury trials …,” the order said.

“Compelling so many people from the community to report for jury duty and then placing them together in jury assembly rooms or courtrooms for extended periods of time creates too great a risk of COVID-19 exposure and cannot continue under current pandemic conditions,” the order said.

The Court will continue to monitor data and community health conditions and will give a minimum of two weeks’ notice when it determines that COVID-19 cases are in decline and that jury trials can safely resume with adequate health and safety precautions in place.

On July 30, 2021, Chief Judge Roberts reimposed face mask requirements for all people in public areas of the courthouses. This requirement remains in place. If people who have business in the courthouses are sick, they should not enter the building and should call Court Administration at one of the following locations:

• DeSoto County: 863-993-4644
• Manatee County: 941-749-3655
• Sarasota County: 941-861-7800

August 13, 2021

A message from Chief Judge Charles E. Roberts

Recent increased cases of COVID-19 have prompted the courts to again make some changes regarding face masks in the courthouses and hearing cases remotely. Our primary goal is to keep everybody in the courthouse as safe as possible. To further that goal, I recently amended Administrative Order 2021-15a.2 to address new face mask requirements for areas of the courthouses and courthouse facilities that are accessible to the public. If you are in the public area of a courthouse or court facility, you must wear a face mask, regardless of whether you are vaccinated. These safeguards were re­-implemented because of the exponential increase in COVID-19 cases in our circuit and all over Florida. The surges in Sarasota and Manatee are greater than the seven-fold increase in Florida as a whole.

Florida recently reported over 21,000 new cases in one day, a new record since the start of the pandemic. In recent weeks, COVID-19 and its variants are hospitalizing more and more people. On August 1, Florida broke a previous record for current hospitalizations set more than a year ago. We have also recently experienced an increased number of COVID-19 exposures and illness among our co-workers and community partners. This is alarming and should be of great concern to everyone.

Even though we recently began scheduling more in-person proceedings, I have encouraged all judges and magistrates to limit the number of in-person proceedings and to conduct as many hearings as possible using remote technology. Each judge and magistrate has their own requirements about in-person versus using remote technology, but I encourage you all to work together and communicate with each other to use Zoom or conference calls for your hearings whenever possible.

The surge in cases is also affecting our ability to transport individuals from the jail to the courthouses. Due to isolation requirements at the jails, it is also affecting our abiilty to easily move them to jail video rooms and jail Zoom kiosks, so our ability to address as many in-custody cases as we have in the past is limited, and will probably continue to be limited for the next few weeks.

Another step recently taken is that in Sarasota County, first appearances will be held at the courthouse, not the jail, until further notice. Weekend first appearance hearings will be held in Courtroom 3A of the Silvertooth Judicial Center.

The setbacks being experienced locally and nationally are disappointing, but history has shown that this country can overcome most dire situations through responsible actions, sacrifice and interdependence on each other. I thank you all for being patient and working with us as we confront the challenges brought on by this unexpected surge of COVID-19 cases. I am confident that we will get through this together successfully.

To all of you and your loved ones, please be vigilant, be safe and remain healthy.

Best regards,
Charlie Roberts

Chief Justice Canady recently issued an administrative order AOSC21-17 that eliminates all requirements for social distancing and face coverings as of June 21. This new order also vacates most of his prior COVID-related administrative orders. Suspension of rules of procedure and judicial administration that would otherwise prohibit remote court proceedings remains in effect, although we do not know for how long. For those who wish to wear a face covering, they are permitted to do so and we will continue to make them available. Our COVID administrative orders will be rescinded as of June 21st.

We are still permitted and encouraged to conduct hearings remotely as may be appropriate and convenient for the parties. Judges may continue to use remote proceedings as they have been doing unless and until procedural rule reinstatements prohibit them. Because our hearings are often scheduled several weeks or even months in advance, there are many cases previously set to occur after June 21st that are scheduled to be heard using remote technology. I have instructed the judges to ensure that their division information on hearings post June 21st is consistent and up to date. Our website and JACS will also provide current information on scheduling for each division so that parties know how their hearings will be conducted.

We anticipate that there will be some transition time before we are 100% in person because many parties have been noticed to appear remotely and we do not want to create more confusion by simply assuming they will appear in person based on news reports. Many judges will be issuing amended trial orders or notices for cases scheduled later in 2021 and many divisions will keep using Zoom for certain proceedings that the Bar members and their clients have found efficient and convenient. There are several procedural rule changes currently under consideration by the supreme court, and I do expect that some rules will be permanently amended to allow for greater use of technology in many divisions of court.

I also want to remind those attorneys who practice in the criminal division that it will not be possible to “flip the switch” seamlessly on June 21 and proceed in person as we did pre-COVID. There are a few reasons for this, which vary from county to county, and include personnel issues, limited jail video feeds, and jail quarantine procedures that are still in effect. As we transition back to in person court events, this is will mean a gradual reduction in the number of available jail video feeds. Please do not assume a last minute request for an add on for inmate transport or for a jail feed can be honored. These first few weeks will almost certainly bring some confusion and frustration, but as we have over the last fifteen months, we will get through it.

A year ago it seemed like an easy enough proposition that we’d simply reopen and continue as normal after what we hoped would be a short interruption. Now that things have been scheduled months in advance using Zoom, and after we have completely pivoted to a process that we now must un-assemble, it won’t be quite as easy as simply reopening.

On behalf of all of the judges and staff of the 12th Circuit, I want to thank our bar members, their clients and the community for their patience, courtesy and collaboration during the last year. We are truly blessed to work in the best circuit in the state. Without your willingness to embrace new technology and work together to get cases resolved, we could never have kept our doors open, virtually or otherwise. We owe all of you a huge debt of gratitude.

May 18, 2021

In Phase 2, in-person proceedings are limited to mission essential cases or hearings otherwise approved by the Chief Judge. To date, we have been addressing these other cases on a case-by-case basis, requiring a motion showing good cause.

The easing of certain protocols by the Chief Justice has allowed us to approve scheduling certain proceedings without the need for a motion and approval of the Administrative or Chief Judge. This new procedure will be effective May 24, 2021.

Social distancing is still required along with face masks in the actual courtroom, so judges and magistrates must account for the number of persons expected to be in the hearing before scheduling in-person proceedings, and must stagger their in-person dockets to ensure compliance with social distancing. Therefore, mass dockets such as case management or small claims pretrial hearings must continue remotely until further notice.

The following hearings are permitted in person, subject to the other requirements of the AO:

• Criminal evidentiary hearings (including, but not limited to, Sentencing, Motions to Suppress/Stand Your Ground)
• Motions to Compel Fingerprints/DNA
• Out-of-custody pleas
• Delinquency trials
• Dependency trials
• Criminal non-jury trials
• Traffic fatality hearings

Other requests for in-person hearings will continue to follow the motion and order process that has been in place.

These hearings must comply with existing mask and social-distancing protocols. If it is determined that available courtroom space is inadequate to impose social distancing with all attendees, then the hearing must be done remotely.

Lastly, in another step toward a return to full operations, deposition rooms in the courthouses will be open as of Monday, May 24, 2021.

Please consider following @12circuitFL on Twitter and Instagram for announcements regarding updates to Twelfth Judicial Circuit court operations.

May 11, 2021

A message from Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner

This week we take a giant step toward a return to full court operations. Chief Justice Canady removed the mandatory health screening requirement, and social distancing and mandatory masks are now only required during in-person court proceedings, although those are still limited due to Phase 2 protocols.

We’ve updated the court’s COVID-19 news page to include links to the most recent supreme court orders, including Administrative Order 2020-12c.02 entered on May 10 by Chief Judge Bonner to reflect these changes. Find all AOs related to the COVID-19 pandemic on this page under the subheading “Administrative Orders Regarding COVID-19”.

Although fever checks, health screenings and masks are no longer required to enter and or move about in the public spaces of court buildings, we encourage wearing masks indoors, particularly if you are or live with a high-risk individual and have not been fully vaccinated.

We are looking forward to and planning for our post-COVID court buildings. Although we are still in Phase 2 of court operations, the shift away from safety protocols outside of in-person court proceedings is a clear and positive indication that the worst is behind us.

Please consider following @12circuitFL on Twitter and Instagram for announcements regarding updates to Twelfth Judicial Circuit court operations.

May 4, 2021

A message from Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner

In preparation for expanded, in-person proceedings and moving to Phase 3, Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court leaders met this week with health officials from DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties to discuss the pandemic and safety protocols.

Governor DeSantis has removed the state of emergency brought about by the coronavirus, and the CDC has announced that fully vaccinated people can gather outdoors without a mask. However, court proceedings take place indoors, which limits the number of persons who can be in the courthouse. While we’re grateful for some return to normalcy, the fight is not yet finished and court operations must remain in Phase 2 for everyone’s health and safety.

Judges and court staff are all anxious to reopen and have fewer restrictions such as social distancing, but we are required to follow the science and recommendations of these experts as well as directives from the Supreme Court.

Court leaders are closely monitoring community health data and the vaccine’s availability. We’ve also been working behind the scenes this past year, and when the moment arrives for a safe reopening, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court is prepared.

Masks and health screening protocols are still required to enter court buildings. If you are sick or have been exposed to someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and you have a court date or jury duty, please stay home and contact your attorney or clerk’s office to discuss your next steps.

Court operational phases

• Phase 1 – in-person contact is inadvisable, court facilities are effectively closed to the public, and in-person proceedings are rare;
• Phase 2 – in-person contact is authorized for certain purposes but requires use of protective measures;
• Phase 3 – an effective vaccine is adequately available and in use and in-person contact is more broadly authorized; and
• Phase 4 – COVID-19 no longer presents a significant risk to public health and safety.

Resources

Reliable, verifiable information is critical when dealing with a public health emergency. Not all sources of news and information share these characteristics. Use your best judgment when relying on a website or other source for information. Below are a few reliable, verifiable sources of information related to COVID-19:

• World Health Organization
• Centers for Disease Control
• Florida Department of Health
• Coronavirus.gov (federal government’s website, including current guidance on face coverings)

December 4, 2020

With a vaccine for COVID-19 on the horizon, the Florida Supreme Court updated its administrative orders AOSC20-23, Amendment 8 and AOSC20-32, Amendment 5, detailing emergency measures for Florida Courts with a four-phase reopening plan to lessen the disease’s transmission but ensuring the courts are operating to their fullest extent while keeping the public safe.

The updated phases are:

• Phase 1 – in-person contact is inadvisable, court facilities are effectively closed to the public, and in-person proceedings are rare;
• Phase 2 – in-person contact is authorized for certain purposes but requires use of protective measures;
• Phase 3 – an effective vaccine is adequately available and in use and in-person contact is more broadly authorized; and
• Phase 4 – COVID-19 no longer presents a significant risk to public health and safety.

The most significant change is Phase 3, which requires that a vaccine must be in use and available to everyone before we can relax safety measures and allow more people into court buildings.

Additionally, the new AO permits us to begin remote civil jury trials as long as all parties agree. We will be working with our clerks and trial lawyers to implement a process for this new option.

We are making progress toward restoring full court operations. Looking ahead to 2021 means that until a vaccine is widely available, we must limit in-person hearings and conduct most court proceedings by video, phone or other electronic means.

Please help us keep our community safe when you visit a court building by wearing a mask and staying home if you’re sick or have been exposed to someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19. We follow CDC and local health department guidelines when enforcing our screening protocols and contact tracing.

Court leaders will continue to monitor community health data and the vaccine’s availability. Please consider following us on Twitter and Instagram @12circuitFL for updates on court operations.

September 29, 2020

Although Governor DeSantis has lifted the health precautions and restrictions imposed on businesses throughout Florida, the courts, as a separate but co-equal branch of government, follow the requirements put in place by the Florida Supreme Court and its chief justice, Charles Canady. Chief Justice Canady has issued several administrative orders outlining measures for Florida courts to follow, including a four-phase operating procedure. These phases are separate and distinct from the State of Florida phases issued by the governor.

Since the early stages of the pandemic, the courts have continued to operate using remote technology in a continued effort to ensure that justice is not compromised. While some cases and court proceedings are more difficult to conduct than others, we are continuing to conduct court hearings and evidentiary trials by utilizing audio/video technology within our circuit.

On a recent episode of “Law & Sarasota,” hosted by Senior Judge Lee E. Haworth, Chief Judge Bonner discussed in detail the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and explained how the court has adjusted to the unique circumstances.

Currently, all three counties in the Twelfth Circuit have transitioned to Phase 2 operations in accordance with the administrative orders.

The four phases of the pandemic, as it relates to courthouse operations, are as follows:

• Phase 1: In-person contact is inadvisable, court facilities are effectively closed to the public, and in-person proceedings are rare;
• Phase 2: Limited in-person contact is authorized for certain purposes and/or require the use of protective measures;
• Phase 3: In-person contact is more broadly authorized and protective measures are relaxed; and
• Phase 4: COVID-19 no longer presents significant risk to public health and safety.

Phase 2 permits limited in-person court proceedings only for specific types of cases. All proceedings will continue to occur remotely where they can be done effectively. In-person proceedings will only occur as per the provisions in administrative orders AOSC20-23, Amendment 4; AOSC20-32, Amendment 3; and AO2020-12a.02.

The courts will follow social distancing guidelines, and we will conduct health screening as you enter the court buildings. Use of personal protection equipment (PPE) is required and the court and county staff will be cleaning and disinfecting the courtrooms frequently throughout the day.

If you receive a notice for court or a jury summons, please follow the instructions in the notice. If you have questions, please contact the Clerk of Court or the judge’s office, as necessary.

Most of all, please understand that the judicial branch has been innovative, flexible, and proactive in adapting court operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We remain committed to protecting liberties and resolving disputes with a priority given to protecting the public health.

September 21, 2020

On Friday, September 18, a six-member jury delivered a verdict in the first criminal jury trial to take place in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit since March.

Circuit Judge Charles Roberts presided over the felony trial at the Judge Lynn N. Silvertooth Judicial Center in Sarasota County. The jury was selected on Wednesday afternoon from a panel of 30 prospective jurors who answered the call for jury service. Eight witnesses testified over the course of the two-day trial, including one appearing remotely over Zoom. The jury reached a verdict Friday afternoon.

Several features of the trial that did not resemble pre-pandemic jury trials included face masks, social distancing and the regular cleaning of surfaces and microphones after each use. Additional information regarding the court’s health screening protocols and cleaning measures can be found on our COVID-19 News Page.

The success of the first jury trial was a result of the combined efforts of judges and the staff of Court Administration, the Sarasota County Clerk of Court, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and Sarasota County Administration. Each of these offices played an integral role in ensuring the health and safety of the jury and all who enter our court facilities.

Jury trials are scheduled in Sarasota and Manatee County this week, and will resume in Venice and DeSoto County in October.

September 8, 2020

Desoto County is transitioning to Phase 2 on Tuesday, September 8. The same health screening protocols and face mask requirements as in the other counties apply in Desoto as well.

Court operations in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Venice transitioned from Phase 1 to Phase 2 on August 17.

Phase 2 looks a lot like Phase 1 with limited in-person hearings, and we’ll still require the use of face coverings, health screening questions, and fever checks, but it was a BIG step forward in our return to normal operations.

Another big step is that the Clerk's Offices in Manatee and Sarasota counties have issued jury summonses for September. The right to a jury trial is guaranteed by the constitution, but we also need to make sure everyone is safe and healthy. Please watch this video on the significance of jury duty during a public health crisis.

Until we transition to Phase 3 we must continue to hold most hearings by video and/or phone conferencing. If the hearing can't be held remotely it will be continued.

As we work to slow the spread of COVID-19, we must limit only those with official court business, a scheduled hearing or appointment to enter court buildings. Please do not bring anyone with you to court, because they may not be able to enter the building with you.

TIMEFRAMES EXTENDED ON FORECLOSURES/EVICTONS

On August 31, Governor DeSantis signed Executive Order 20-211 extending the timeframes of EO 20-94 regarding mortgage foreclosures and evictions until October 1, 2020.

It is not necessary for Chief Judge Bonner to enter a new local administrative order extending the date through October 1, because AO 2020-15b.1 included language that stated if the governor amends, changes or alters the timeframes in Executive Order 20-94, (as extended by EO 20-121, 20-137, and 20-180) that the timeframes set forth will extend without further order from the court.

Effective Monday, August 17, 2020, court operations in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Venice will transition from Phase 1 to Phase 2.

Phase 2 will look a lot like Phase 1 with limited in-person hearings, and we'll still require face coverings, health screening questions, and fever checks before people enter court buildings, but it's a BIG step forward in our return to normal operations.

We will continue to hold most hearings by video and/or phone conferencing. If the hearing can't be held remotely it will be continued.

As we work to slow the spread of COVID-19, we must limit only those with official court business, a scheduled hearing or appointment to enter court buildings. Please do not bring anyone with you to court, because they may not be able to enter the building with you.

NEXT STEPS

It's undetermined when DeSoto County will enter Phase 2, but based on the current data, we don't see it happening before September 1. Court leaders will continue to monitor data from the health department and consult with county officials.

Although civil jury trials will remain suspended through December 31, 2020, the health data shows we're on track to resume criminal jury trials within the next few months.

SIGNFICANT CHANGES IN FORECLOSURES

Chief Judge Bonner recently issued Administrative Order, 2020-15b.1, Re: Suspension of Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Actions and Residential Evictions Related to Non-Payment Due to COVID-19, in response to Governor DeSantis issuing Executive Order 20-180. Judge Bonner's new order amends and replaces AO2020-15a.1. It is in effect from August 1, 2020, through September 1, 2020.

The new order lifts the suspension of commercial foreclosures and commercial eviction proceedings.

Additionally, the order lifts the suspension of residential foreclosure actions unrelated to non-payment, or actions in which there is no claim of adverse effects of COVID-19, or defaulted foreclosure actions related to non-payment.

In foreclosure cases where the borrower is claiming financial hardship due to COVID-19, the action can still be filed be filed and hearings can still be scheduled. However, all summary/final judgment hearings and trials remain suspended through September 1 unless all parties agree in writing that they wish to proceed.

The new order lifts the suspension of eviction proceedings unrelated to non-payment of rent, or when the eviction is due to the tenant's failure to pay rent and a default was entered, and in eviction proceedings where the tenant does not allege adverse effects due to COVID-19.

In eviction cases where the tenant is claiming financial hardship due to COVID-19, the action can still be filed and summonses can still be issued. However, defaults will not be entered, and all summary/final judgment hearings and trials remain suspended through September 1 unless all parties agree in writing that they wish to proceed.

July 30, 2020

As we work to slow the spread of COVID-19, we must limit only those with official court business, a scheduled hearing or appointment to enter court buildings. Please do not bring anyone with you to court, because they may not be able to enter the building with you.

We are still in phase 1 of our four-phase plan to full operations but Chief Judge Bonner has authorized the following hearings to occur in-person: Early Case Resolution (ECRs) hearings after felony arraignments and out-of-custody pleas. In-person pleas may take place as approved by the presiding judge and/or the administrative judge, and as long as social-distancing guidelines are followed. Contact the judge's office to schedule in-person plea hearings.

Chief Judge Kimberly C. Bonner's message to attorneys in the 12th Circuit

As you've all seen in the news, Florida has experienced a significant upward trend in COVID-19 cases. This will result in delays to the court reopening. In speaking with health officials in all three of our counties, it appears we are still at least two weeks away from meeting the public health benchmarks set by the supreme court, and quite possibly, longer than that to go to phase 2. The benchmarks include not only the number of new cases, but other factors such as overall percent of positive tests, the percentage of population being tested, and availability of hospital and ICU beds. We have been very fortunate to have great partners in our counties. Our resources and protocols are in place, and we will be ready for phase 2. Working remotely, we are still able to handle our caseloads at near 80% capacity. With the exception of jury trial backlogs, which will be significant, our other work is being done and being done effectively. Some counties in the state had to almost immediately phase back down after moving quickly to phase 2. We are in line with most other circuits in being ready with resources, but waiting for the numbers to either level off at an acceptable rate or trend downward.

Under Justice Canady’s Administrative Order, once a county reaches phase 2, jury trials may commence no earlier than thirty days from that date. During phase 2, we will still be operating under strict protocols, including social distancing and mandatory masks. Thus, the number of available jurors and the space in which to seat them significantly impacts the number of trials we can feasibly conduct. With social distancing, for example, there are a limited number of spaces in each court facility that can seat jurors for trial and for deliberation. Even in phase 3, which depends largely on COVID numbers continuing to decline, we will still be dealing with the criminal backlog as well as the resumption of speedy trial demands. Because criminal cases receive priority for available jurors, it is apparent that there is little to no potential for seating civil juries in 2020. I have therefore made the difficult decision to suspend civil jury trials through the rest of the year. It’s only fair that attorneys and their clients know what to expect and make an informed decision about where to allocate their time and money. Hoping for the best and moving cases a few months ahead accomplishes nothing.

None of us could have predicted what 2020 would look like and I am deeply sorry to those litigants who are relying on a jury to resolve their dispute and who now must wait. The length of the partial shutdown and the backlog of criminal cases, along with inevitable juror shortages and logistical challenges for jury trials means that the math simply doesn’t work in favor of civil trials resuming.

Despite these setbacks, we remain committed to staying open for business and are making full use of technology to hear cases. I want to thank all of you for your compliance with our PPE procedures for those few in-person proceedings we are having. The medical experts that the state workgroup consulted with were unequivocal in stating that masks are the most effective way to prevent spread of the virus. Because people are compelled to come into a court facility, we owe a special duty to all of you to ensure we are following best practices. I assure you we are abiding by them as well, even in our personal work spaces.

I am in constant contact with our local health officials and other constitutional officers, and make every effort to make sure our website is updated with the latest developments. Additionally, judges in all divisions have been holding Zoom town halls or informal online gatherings to discuss questions or concerns. We welcome your input and look forward to seeing you all, in person, soon.

July 1, 2020

Last night the governor entered Executive Order 20-159 which extended EO 20-94 (Limited Extension of Mortgage Foreclosure and Eviction Relief), until August 1, 2020. The court will not enter another Administrative Order on the subject since the last one (AO2020-15a.1) had the following language in it, "This Order is subject to modification, addition, and extension as changing facts and circumstances may require. If Governor Ron DeSantis amends, changes or alters the timeframes set forth in Executive Order 20-94, extended by EO 20-121 and 20-137, the timeframes set forth in this Administrative Order will extend automatically without the necessity of further order from this court."

As we work to slow the spread of COVID-19, we must limit only those with official court business, a scheduled hearing or appointment to enter court buildings. Please do not bring anyone with you to court, because they may not be able to enter the building with you.

We are still in phase 1 of our four-phase plan to full operations but Chief Judge Bonner has authorized the following hearings to occur in-person: Early Case Resolution (ECRs) hearings after felony arraignments and out-of-custody pleas. In-person pleas may take place as long as social-distancing guidelines are followed. Contact the judge's office to schedule in-person plea hearings.

Chief Judge Kimberly C. Bonner's message to attorneys in the 12th Circuit

As you've all seen in the news, Florida has experienced a significant upward trend in COVID-19 cases. This will result in delays to the court reopening. In speaking with health officials in all three of our counties, it appears we are still at least two weeks away from meeting the public health benchmarks set by the supreme court, and quite possibly, longer than that to go to phase 2. The benchmarks include not only the number of new cases, but other factors such as overall percent of positive tests, the percentage of population being tested, and availability of hospital and ICU beds. We have been very fortunate to have great partners in our counties. Our resources and protocols are in place, and we will be ready for phase 2. Working remotely, we are still able to handle our caseloads at near 80% capacity. With the exception of jury trial backlogs, which will be significant, our other work is being done and being done effectively. Some counties in the state had to almost immediately phase back down after moving quickly to phase 2. We are in line with most other circuits in being ready with resources, but waiting for the numbers to either level off at an acceptable rate or trend downward.

Under Justice Canady’s Administrative Order, once a county reaches phase 2, jury trials may commence no earlier than thirty days from that date. During phase 2, we will still be operating under strict protocols, including social distancing and mandatory masks. Thus, the number of available jurors and the space in which to seat them significantly impacts the number of trials we can feasibly conduct. With social distancing, for example, there are a limited number of spaces in each court facility that can seat jurors for trial and for deliberation. Even in phase 3, which depends largely on COVID numbers continuing to decline, we will still be dealing with the criminal backlog as well as the resumption of speedy trial demands. Because criminal cases receive priority for available jurors, it is apparent that there is little to no potential for seating civil juries in 2020. I have therefore made the difficult decision to suspend civil jury trials through the rest of the year. It’s only fair that attorneys and their clients know what to expect and make an informed decision about where to allocate their time and money. Hoping for the best and moving cases a few months ahead accomplishes nothing.

None of us could have predicted what 2020 would look like and I am deeply sorry to those litigants who are relying on a jury to resolve their dispute and who now must wait. The length of the partial shutdown and the backlog of criminal cases, along with inevitable juror shortages and logistical challenges for jury trials means that the math simply doesn’t work in favor of civil trials resuming.

Despite these setbacks, we remain committed to staying open for business and are making full use of technology to hear cases. I want to thank all of you for your compliance with our PPE procedures for those few in-person proceedings we are having. The medical experts that the state workgroup consulted with were unequivocal in stating that masks are the most effective way to prevent spread of the virus. Because people are compelled to come into a court facility, we owe a special duty to all of you to ensure we are following best practices. I assure you we are abiding by them as well, even in our personal work spaces.

I am in constant contact with our local health officials and other constitutional officers, and make every effort to make sure our website is updated with the latest developments. Additionally, judges in all divisions have been holding Zoom town halls or informal online gatherings to discuss questions or concerns. We welcome your input and look forward to seeing you all, in person, soon.

A MESSAGE FROM CHIEF JUDGE KIMBERLY C. BONNER

As you know, the Florida Supreme Court has issued several Administrative Orders related to the court reopening plan and other COVID-19 related policies. Similar to the state as a whole, this reopening is divided into phases. It is important for members of the public, lawyers, and litigants, to understand that the court phases do not necessarily line up with other statewide phases or business reopenings. Our reopening is governed by the orders from the Florida Supreme Court. They are not independently developed by county or circuit. Whereas people voluntarily choose to go to certain private businesses or other public places, for the most part, they are in a courthouse because they are compelled to be there. These public buildings are challenging to maintain and keep clean, even in the absence of a pandemic, and we must be able to assure everyone who enters our court facilities that we are taking all possible measures to make sure not only that they are physically safe, but that we are not exposing them to the virus.

The Supreme Court’s current required benchmarks for proceeding to Phase 2 include many factors beyond our control, such as an overall decline in COVID-19 numbers within a county over a 14-day period. Two of our three counties have experienced a spike in COVID-19 numbers within the past week. This will delay our ability to meet the benchmark. Other requirements for conducting more in person hearings during phase 2, including jury trials, are temperature and health screenings. The latter requires our county partners to assist and we have been working diligently to get the equipment and personnel necessary.

As a means to get us closer to Phase 2, I issued an administrative order last week setting out mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE) starting June 8, and mandatory health screenings in all court facilities beginning June 15. These dates were set with the expectation that the screening resources would have been obtained by June 15, and there is still the possibility that by the end of next week, everything will be secured to begin these screenings. There is, however, also a possibility that our screening resources will take longer to implement and that this protocol may be delayed.

Even when these measures are in place, we cannot go to Phase 2 until I can certify to the Supreme Court that we’ve met ALL of the necessary benchmarks. Until we can, we will still be in Phase 1, with limited in-person proceedings, use of PPEs and mandatory health screens. This will still enable us to begin tackling our criminal docket backlog, as well as some other matters, but with the added restriction of social distancing and use of PPEs/screening. This means we cannot hold in-person criminal arraignments or pleas for out-of-custody defendants until all the mandatory health screens are in place.

The COVID-19 situation changes daily, and sometimes hourly, and it can be frustrating and confusing to watch the state “reopen” when we are not. I will do my best to keep everyone informed on our progress.

Thank you.

May 30, 2020

Read Chief Judge Bonner’s newest message

Twelfth Circuit Chief Judge Kimberly C. Bonner issued two new administrative orders as part of the Court’s continued response to COVID-19 and our phased revamp to full operations. We’re in Phase 1 now, which means all hearings except emergency hearings are conducted by video and phone conferencing.

In order to move to Phase 2, a time when limited in-person contact will be allowed in court proceedings, protective measures will still be required. According to the Supreme Court’s order AOSC20-23, Amendment 2, we will be able to move to Phase 2 when:

• There have been no COVID-19 cases in the courthouse within 14 days or there has been a deep cleaning if such cases have occurred;
• Local and state orders permit the activity;
• The community shows at least 14 days of improvements in COVID-19 case reporting;
• Adequate testing programs are in place; and
• We have consulted with other building occupants and justice system partners (State Attorney, Public Defender, law enforcement, and other agencies such as Department of Children and Families).

Beginning June 8, local AO2020-12.02 requires that anyone who enters a court building – including judges – must wear a facemask in all public areas. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own facemask to wear in court. If you arrive without a facemask, we’ll give you a disposable one before you enter the building.

We’ll continue the practice of keeping six-feet of distance between everyone – in lines, in courtrooms and in elevators. Only three people will be allowed in an elevator at any time.

We’ll also continue to clean and sanitize all public areas giving special attention to elevator buttons, door handles and hand rails.

Beginning June 15, anyone who enters a court building will have their temperature checked and asked a series of questions related to COVID-19 exposure. If you have a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher or you answer “yes” to any question you will not be allowed into the building and your case will be rescheduled. The court will not issue a bench warrant for failing to appear for your hearing if you were turned away due to the screening process.

Judge Bonner also issued AO2020-13.01, which suspends civil jury trials through September 18, 2020.

May 22, 2020

NEW ORDERS SETTING HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES IN COURTS

Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady issued an order on May 21, 2020, establishing health and safety precautions based on a report issued by a statewide advisory COVID-19 Workgroup, of which Twelfth Circuit Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner is a member.

Chief Justice Canady also amended an earlier order (AOSC20-23, Amendment 2) that provides comprehensive emergency procedures for use in courts in the pandemic. The amendments incorporate the new Phase 2 safety procedures contained in the COVID-19 Workgroup report.

We are currently in Phase 1, the time when all hearings except emergency hearings are being conducted by video and phone conferencing.

Phase 2 is the time when limited in-person contact will be authorized in courts and court proceedings, but protective measures still will be required.

Transition to Phase 2 in the Twelfth Circuit will occur when it meets five benchmark criteria:

• There has been no COVID-19 cases in the courthouse within 14 days or the use of deep cleaning if such cases have occurred
• Local and state restrictive orders permit the activity;
• The community shows at least 14 days of improvements in case reporting;
• adequate testing programs are in place; and
• We have consulted with other building occupants and justice system partners.

Chief Justice Canady also issued an order creating a new pilot program to explore ways to let jury trials begin again using remote technology. Under the pilot program, the COVID-19 Workgroup will develop requirements and will select up to five Florida trial circuits to participate. At this point, trials will only be civil, non-criminal cases and all parties must consent to participate in the pilot.

To learn more about the four-phase expansion of court operations, or follow the activities of the statewide COVID-19 Workgroup, visit flcourts.org. There you'll find links to meeting agendas and minutes, and guides to help you conduct business with the court using remote methods:

• Representing yourself and using video with the court;
• Managing evidence in video hearings in civil and family cases; and
• Arranging video hearings with people who don't have a lawyer.

FORECLOSURES, EVICTIONS ON HOLD THROUGH JUNE 2

Based on Governor DeSantis extending Executive Order 20-94 and suspending foreclosures and evictions through June 2, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit’s Administrative Order 2020-11.1 suspending evictions and foreclosures during the COVID-19 pandemic is also extended through June 2. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the date through June 2 because AO 2020-11.1 included language that stated, “If Governor Ron DeSantis amends, changes or alters the timeframes set forth in Executive Order 20-94, the timeframes set forth in this Administrative Order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.”

THE COURTS ARE OPEN

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit has suspended all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. For additional details please review previous Florida Supreme Court and local administrative orders with AOSC20-23, Amendment 1, AOSC20-23, AOSC20-15, AOSC20-13, and AO 2020-04.2.

Jury proceedings and jury trials are suspended through July 2. If you have received a jury summons please contact the Clerk of Court office in your county.

• DeSoto County Clerk of Court
• Manatee County Clerk of Court
• Sarasota County Clerk of Court

May 19, 2020

COURT OPERATIONS UPDATE FROM CHIEF JUDGE KIMBERLY C. BONNER

Chief Judge Kimberly C. Bonner and the 17-member Continuity of Court Operations Workgroup have been tasked with making recommendations to Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady about the phased reopening of the courthouse doors to the public.

The group has met a number of times over the past four weeks to discuss the way the courts are conducting hearings. They’re looking at where we can assemble jurors when trials resume, how best to accommodate people that don't have access to remote technology or don't have lawyers, and many more issues related to the public's continued access to justice while keeping everyone safe and decreasing the risk of a resurgence of COVID-19 in the community.

"We continue to plan and draft protocols for the beginning of more in-person hearings, which will include personal protection equipment protocols, sanitation schedules, limitations on capacity and screening of individuals who enter the court facilities," Judge Bonner said.

"Jury management is also a critical component of these plans. All requirements and procedures will be entered via administrative orders and prominently displayed in the [court] buildings. In addition, until we are in phase 4 where all hearings are permitted to be held in-person, we will continue to do many, if not most, matters remotely where they can be done effectively," Judge Bonner said.

"Attorneys and parties should check the website frequently for updates and familiarize themselves with judges’ individual requirements.”

Judge Bonner said she thanks everyone for their patience during this process. “As you can imagine, we received many concerns and suggestions about all of these matters. Ensuring the public safety while maintaining access to the court are our highest priorities," Judge Bonner said.

You can find more information on the Continuity of Court Operations Workgroup online at flcourts.org, where you’ll find links to meeting agendas and minutes, and guides to help you conduct business with the court using remote methods:

• Representing yourself and using video with the court;
• Managing evidence in video hearings in civil and family cases; and
• Arranging video hearings with people who don't have a lawyer.

SARASOTA CIRCUIT CIVIL TOWN HALL

The next Town Hall meeting with Sarasota Circuit Civil judges will be held at Noon on May 21st. Sarasota's Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller Karen Rushing is also scheduled to speak. This town hall will focus on civil jury trials in Sarasota, changes to the 2020 and 2021 trial schedules, and thoughts on post-COVID-19 operations in the Sarasota Circuit Civil division. Judges will take questions, prior to and during the town hall. Submit your questions before the event to the Sarasota County Bar Association.

Advanced registration is required.

FORECLOSURES, EVICTIONS ON HOLD THROUGH JUNE 2

Based on Governor DeSantis extending Executive Order 20-94 and suspending foreclosures and evictions through June 2, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit’s Administrative Order 2020-11.1 suspending evictions and foreclosures during the COVID-19 pandemic is also extended through June 2. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the date through June 2 because AO 2020-11.1 included language that stated, “If Governor Ron DeSantis amends, changes or alters the timeframes set forth in Executive Order 20-94, the timeframes set forth in this Administrative Order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.”

THE COURTS ARE OPEN

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit has suspended all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. For additional details please review previous Florida Supreme Court and local administrative orders with AOSC20-23, Amendment 1, AOSC20-23, AOSC20-15, AOSC20-13, and AO 2020-04.2.

Jury proceedings and jury trials are suspended through July 2. If you have received a jury summons please contact the Clerk of Court office in your county.

• DeSoto County Clerk of Court
• Manatee County Clerk of Court
• Sarasota County Clerk of Court

May 15, 2020

FORECLOSURES, EVICTIONS ON HOLD THROUGH JUNE 2

Based on Governor DeSantis extending Executive Order 20-94 and suspending foreclosures and evictions through June 2, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit’s Administrative Order 2020-11.1 suspending evictions and foreclosures during the COVID-19 pandemic is also extended through June 2. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the date through June 2 because AO 2020-11.1 included language that stated, “If Governor Ron DeSantis amends, changes or alters the timeframes set forth in Executive Order 20-94, the timeframes set forth in this Administrative Order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.”

THE COURTS ARE OPEN

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit has suspended all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. For additional details please review previous Florida Supreme Court and local administrative orders with AOSC20-23, Amendment 1, AOSC20-23, AOSC20-15, AOSC20-13, and AO 2020-04.2.

Jury proceedings and jury trials are suspended through July 2. If you have received a jury summons please contact the Clerk of Court office in your county.

• DeSoto County Clerk of Court
• Manatee County Clerk of Court
• Sarasota County Clerk of Court

May 12, 2020

JURY PROCEEDINGS AND JURY TRIALS SUSPENDED THROUGH JULY 2

Based on the recommendations of the 17-member Court Continuity Workgroup, Chief Justice Canady has amended his April 6, 2020, administrative order AOSC20-23, with AOSC20-23, Amendment 1, and extended the suspension of grand jury proceedings, jury selection, and criminal and civil jury trials through July 2, 2020.

The amendment still requires courts to limit the types of in-person hearings to only essential proceedings and use telephone or videoconferencing for all other hearings, where practicable, through May 29, 2020, unless the court extends the order.

THE COURTS ARE OPEN

On April 6, 2020, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady entered Administrative Order AOSC20-23 suspending all jury trials through May 29, 2020. Based on the new order, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit will suspend all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the dates through May 29 because AO 2020-04.2 included language that stated, “If the timeframes set forth in AOSC20-13 and AOSC20-15 are extended by the Supreme Court of Florida, the timeframes in this order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.” 

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner issued Administrative Order 2020-11.1 on April 14, 2020, suspending eviction and foreclosure court processes through May 17, 2020, or until further ordered by the court.

May 5, 2020

JURY PROCEEDINGS AND JURY TRIALS SUSPENDED THROUGH JULY 2

Based on the recommendations of the 17-member Court Continuity Workgroup, Chief Justice Canady has amended his April 6, 2020, administrative order AOSC20-23, with AOSC20-23, Amendment 1, and extended the suspension of grand jury proceedings, jury selection, and criminal and civil jury trials through July 2, 2020.

The amendment still requires courts to limit the types of in-person hearings to only essential proceedings and use telephone or videoconferencing for all other hearings, where practicable, through May 29, 2020, unless the court extends the order.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

With Chief Judge Bonner’s appointment to the Court Continuity Workgroup, created by Chief Justice Canady’s Administrative Order AOSC20-28, she is directed to develop findings and recommendations on the continuation of court operations in a way that protects health and safety and addresses each of the following phases:

• Phase 1: In-person contact is inadvisable and thus in-person proceedings in the courthouse are rare
• Phase 2: Limited in-person hearings are authorized for certain purposes and/or requires use of protective measures
• Phase 3: In-person proceedings are more broadly authorized and protective measures are relaxed
• Phase 4: COVID-19 no longer presents a significant health or safety risk

We know that ramping up to full operations after the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic subsides is going to take a village, and the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court wants your input. We invite attorneys and the public to email suggestions, comments, and concerns about resuming court processes.

Please review the administrative order and limit your comments to those issues for which feedback is sought. With the probability of a gradual resumption of standard court operations, it’s important that your input pertains to how to effectively accomplish this, as opposed to a general wish list.

Specific complaints or concerns about a particular division policy or judge’s requirements should be addressed directly with the presiding judge or administrative judge.

THE COURTS ARE OPEN

On April 6, 2020, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady entered Administrative Order AOSC20-23 suspending all jury trials through May 29, 2020. Based on the new order, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit will suspend all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the dates through May 29 because AO 2020-04.2 included language that stated, “If the timeframes set forth in AOSC20-13 and AOSC20-15 are extended by the Supreme Court of Florida, the timeframes in this order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.” 

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner issued Administrative Order 2020-11.1 on April 14, 2020, suspending eviction and foreclosure court processes through May 17, 2020, or until further ordered by the court.

APRIL 27, 2020

It Takes a Village

With Chief Judge Bonner’s appointment to the Court Continuity Workgroup, created by Chief Justice Canady’s Administrative Order AOSC20-28, she is directed to develop findings and recommendations on the continuation of court operations in a way that protects health and safety and addresses each of the following phases:

• Phase 1: In-person contact is inadvisable and thus in-person proceedings in the courthouse are rare
• Phase 2: Limited in-person hearings are authorized for certain purposes and/or requires use of protective measures
• Phase 3: In-person proceedings are more broadly authorized and protective measures are relaxed
• Phase 4: COVID-19 no longer presents a significant health or safety risk

We know that ramping up to full operations after the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic subsides is going to take a village, and the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court wants your input. We invite attorneys and the public to email suggestions, comments, and concerns about resuming court processes.

Please review the administrative order and limit your comments to those issues for which feedback is sought. With the probability of a gradual resumption of standard court operations, it’s important that your input pertains to how to effectively accomplish this, as opposed to a general wish list.

Specific complaints or concerns about a particular division policy or judge’s requirements should be addressed directly with the presiding judge or administrative judge.

The courts are open

On April 6, 2020, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady entered Administrative Order AOSC20-23 suspending all jury trials through May 29, 2020. Based on the new order, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit will suspend all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the dates through May 29 because AO 2020-04.2 included language that stated, “If the timeframes set forth in AOSC20-13 and AOSC20-15 are extended by the Supreme Court of Florida, the timeframes in this order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.” 

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner issued Administrative Order 2020-11.1 on April 14, 2020, suspending eviction and foreclosure court processes through May 17, 2020, or until further ordered by the court.

A message from Chief Judge Kimberly C. Bonner [April 17, 2020]

APRIL 14, 2020

On April 6, 2020, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady entered Administrative Order AOSC20-23 suspending all jury trials through May 29, 2020. Based on the new order, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit will suspend all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the dates through May 29 because AO 2020-04.2 included language that stated, “If the timeframes set forth in AOSC20-13 and AOSC20-15 are extended by the Supreme Court of Florida, the timeframes in this order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.” 

While only certain hearings are being held in the judicial centers, the courts are holding most other hearings remotely using video conferencing and/or teleconferencing software. Please check the specific division or the Zoom page for more information, or contact the judge's office to check on your hearing status. Find a list of judges, magistrates and hearing officers on our Judges/Magistrates webpage.

Chief Judge Kimberly Bonner issued Administrative Order 2020-11.1 on April 14, 2020, suspending eviction and foreclosure court processes through May 17, 2020, or until further ordered by the court.

APRIL 6, 2020

On April 6, 2020, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady entered Administrative Order AOSC20-23 suspending all jury trials through May 29, 2020. Based on the new order, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit will suspend all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through May 29, 2020. It is not necessary for the Chief Judge to enter a new local administrative order extending the dates through May 29 because AO 2020-04.2 included language that stated, “If the timeframes set forth in AOSC20-13 and AOSC20-15 are extended by the Supreme Court of Florida, the timeframes in this order will extend without the necessity of further order from this court.” 

Address Changes, Future Court Dates

We are asking that if anyone needs to update an address or has a question about their next court date to please email the Self Help Center or call (941) 861-8191.

If you are an attorney, a defendant, or a citizen with an interest in a criminal court case, you can register for eNotify, a service that provides users with courtesy text and email reminders about upcoming court events. For more information, visit enotify.flcourts.org. NOTE: This service is available only for criminal cases.

MARCH 25, 2020

On March 24, 2020, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Canady entered Administrative Order AOSC20-17 suspending all jury trials through April 17, 2020. Based on the new order, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit will suspend all non-essential or non-critical programs and services through April 17, 2020.

Address Changes, Future Court Dates

If anyone needs to update their address or has a question about their next court date, please email the SarasotaSelfHelpCenter@jud12.flcourts.org">Self Help Center or call (941) 861-8191.

The following cases will still be heard during the emergency operations, via electronic communication where possible (find the full list on Administrative Order 2020-4.2):

• First Appearance hearings
• Bond hearings for defendants in custody
• Shelter and Juvenile Detention hearings
• Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) advisory hearings
• Hearings on petitions for Judicial Wavier of Notice
• Baker Act/Marchman Act hearings
• Emergency Guardianship hearings
• Risk Protection Order hearings
• Temporary Domestic Violence Injunction hearings
• Other emergency or time sensitive matters as determined by the presiding judge

Additionally, criminal division judges may hold necessary in-custody criminal hearings as long as the hearings conducted electronically, there are no in-person defendants, and the judge finds that the custody status of the Defendant will be affected by the hearing.

Unless you have been otherwise advised by the presiding judge, all non-emergency court hearings, including but not limited to: special set hearings, motions, pretrial motions, foreclosures, evictions, divorces and case management conferences will be canceled and reset for a future date. At the presiding judge’s discretion there may be a limited number of civil, family and probate hearings held telephonically.  Note: Judge Matt Whyte has posted updated temporary procedures to Manatee County Family Division 3 and Judge Teri Dees has posted updated temporary procedures for Manatee County Juvenile Division J.

MARCH 18, 2020

Due to the COVID-19 health emergency and based on the Florida Supreme Court’s Administrative Order AOSC20-15, the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Courts are postponing most cases except those that are considered essential and critical, in order to limit the effects of the disease on the courts, court participants, and citizens. Therefore, the Judiciary and Court Administration will operate with minimum staff in court facilities.

In response to the Chief Justice’s newest order, Twelfth Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Kimberly C. Bonner has entered Administrative Order 2020-4.2 to address these emergency procedures and functions. Effective at 5 p.m. on March 18, 2020 through March 27, 2020, the following cases will still be heard during the emergency operations, via electronic communication where possible (find the full list on Administrative Order 2020-4.2):

• First Appearance hearings
• Bond hearings for defendants in custody
• Shelter and Juvenile Detention hearings
• Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) advisory hearings
• Hearings on petitions for Judicial Wavier of Notice
• Baker Act/Marchman Act hearings
• Emergency Guardianship hearings
• Risk Protection Order hearings
• Temporary Domestic Violence Injunction hearings
• Other emergency or time sensitive matters as determined by the presiding judge

Additionally, criminal division judges may hold necessary in-custody criminal hearings as long as the hearings conducted electronically, there are no in-person defendants, and the judge finds that the custody status of the Defendant will be affected by the hearing.

Unless you have been otherwise advised by the presiding judge, all non-emergency court hearings, including but not limited to: special set hearings, motions, pretrial motions, foreclosures, evictions, divorces and case management conferences will be canceled and reset for a future date. At the presiding judge’s discretion there may be a limited number of civil, family and probate hearings held telephonically.

We are in constant communication with our county clerks and law enforcement officials as well as other elected officials and health authorities. We will continue to update this site as the situation develops. We are also working with our sheriffs, state attorney and public defender to address those inmates who may be eligible for release or who can resolve their cases without further incarceration. View new procedures for attorney access to clients within the Desoto County Jail.

MARCH 16, 2020

12th Circuit Court Guidelines and Protocols during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Although the courts remain open, our goal is to dramatically reduce the number of people reporting to the courthouses each day. PERSONS WHO DO NOT HAVE BUSINESS IN THE COURT FACILITIES ARE REQUESTED TO REFRAIN FROM COMING INTO THE BUILDING

Effective March 17, 2020 through March 27, 2020, the following changes are implemented in each division:

CIRCUIT WIDE: NO INMATES WILL BE TRANSPORTED TO THE COURTHOUSE EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY AUTHORIZED

County Court – all of these to be re-noticed by the clerk’s office.

1. All proceedings where a defendant is in custody will be done via video, including arraignments, docket soundings, VOP’s and case management hearings;
2. All out of custody misdemeanor arraignment dates during this time will be rescheduled to a date at least 30 days out;
3. All out of custody criminal traffic arraignment dates during this time will be rescheduled to a date at least 30 days out;
4. All out of custody docket soundings, pretrial conferences, case management, and VOP hearings set during this time will be rescheduled to a date at least 30 days out;
5. All small claims pretrial hearings set during this time will be rescheduled to a date at least 30 days out;
6. All civil traffic hearings scheduled in front of the Civil Traffic Infraction Hearing Officer during this time will be rescheduled to a date at least 30 days out;
7. All contested traffic hearing dates during this time will be rescheduled to a date at least 30 days out;
8. All jury trials are suspended; and
9. Attorneys and litigants shall utilize telephonic conferencing where practical, provided that a party creates the conference call and circulates the call-in information to all parties and the Court. No Court Order is required.  

Circuit Criminal (Felony) Court

1. All proceedings where a defendant is in custody will be done via video, including bond reduction hearings, arraignments, VOP’s and case management hearings;
2. All out of custody hearings will be rescheduled to a later date;
3. All jury trials are suspended.

First Appearances

1. First appearances will be held every day at the normal time by video;
2. Pretrial services and Manatee SPR will provide scaled back services during this time, including eliminating direct contact with inmates, however, at a minimum they will provide the court criminal histories and PCAs.

Family, Civil and Probate / Guardianship Divisions, Including All Magistrate Hearings

1. All Title IV-D Child Support Hearings will be rescheduled. The hearing officer will be available for telephonic or video jail hearings as needed.
2. All Baker Act and Marchman Act Hearings will be conducted telephonically by the General Magistrate.
3. Attorneys and litigants shall utilize telephonic conferencing where practical, provided that a party creates the conference call and circulates the call-in information to all parties and the Court. No Court Order is required.
4. For evidentiary hearings, the parties are directed immediately to meet and confer by telephone to discuss whether the evidentiary hearing may be conducted telephonically, by video conference, require live in person appearance, should be postponed until the conclusion of the COVID-19 outbreak, or some other action. After the parties' meet and confer, they shall immediately submit their recommendation via email to the assigned Judge's judicial assistant for the Court to review and take action.

Juvenile Court

1. Detention hearing may occur via video or telephonic hearing. MRJDC has indicated that parents may attend telephonic hearings (including 21-day reviews) at the MRJDC conference room.
2. Shelter hearings may occur via video or telephonic conference call where practicable.
3. Attorneys and litigants shall utilize telephonic conferencing where practical, provided that a party creates the conference call and circulates the call-in information to all parties and the Court. No Court Order is required.

Treatment Courts & Specialty Courts

1. Treatment court days are cancelled until after March 27, 2020;
2. All group therapy sessions are cancelled;
3. All urinalysis drops are cancelled;
4. Treatment court supervisors shall develop procedures for counselors and case managers to have telephonic or video contact with clients, including documentation of this contact in DCCM.

Mediations – SCPT, County Civil, CDSP, Family and Dependency

Unless mediations can occur telephonically or via video, all in-person mediations are cancelled and will be rescheduled.

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court is actively monitoring developments with COVID-19, the novel coronavirus.

The safety and security of the public and our employees is our top priority as we seek to achieve our core mission of ensuring access to justice. The courts remain open to the public and we urge you to follow the same precautions that are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to avoid the spread of respiratory diseases: 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

COVID-19 information and resources can be found on the following websites: 

• Florida Department of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• World Health Organization